Weekend Beach Escapes Across the United States: 15 Quick Trips for Sun and Surf
Why a Weekend Beach Trip Works
A quick coastal escape can reset your routine without a long itinerary. These 15 destinations are easy to reach from major cities and deliver everything from rugged tide pools and lighthouse views to boardwalk fun, seafood shacks, and refined resorts.
Pacific Northwest Drama
Olympic National Park, Washington
Trade urban life for wild shoreline at Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach, and Kalaloch. Expect sea stacks, driftwood, tide pools, and nearby hikes in the Hoh Rain Forest. Stay on site at campgrounds, cabins, or park lodges to keep the ocean within earshot.
Northeast Classics
The Hamptons, New York
A favorite New York escape, the Hamptons blends stylish hotels, great dining, and long sandy beaches across East Hampton, Southampton, and Montauk. Consider Gurney’s Montauk for ocean views, The Baker House 1650 in East Hampton, or Baron’s Cove in Sag Harbor.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
With quaint towns like Hyannis, Provincetown, and Chatham, the Cape pairs seaside charm with six swimming beaches along Cape Cod National Seashore. Families love Coast Guard Beach, while surfers head to Nauset Light. For a splurge, book the beachfront Chatham Bars Inn.
Mid Atlantic Shores
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia
Only a few hours from Baltimore, this barrier island is famous for wild horses. Paddle, surf, bird, and hike by day, then fall asleep at oceanfront campsites to the sound of the surf.
Jersey Shore, New Jersey
From quiet Point Pleasant and Asbury Park to lively Atlantic City and Ocean City, the Jersey Shore serves up boardwalks, wide beaches, and easy weekends from New York City and Philadelphia. The James Bradley brings modern style for a short stay.
Great Lakes Gem
Saugatuck, Michigan
An easy drive from Chicago or Detroit, Saugatuck offers sandy Lake Michigan beaches, swimming with no sharks to worry about, and an artsy downtown. Kayak, sail, hike, then unwind at The Hotel Saugatuck in the Historic District.
California Coastlines
Monterey County, California
Base in Carmel or Monterey for soft sand, seafood, and coastal scenery. L’Auberge Carmel, a Relais and Châteaux property, sits a short stroll from the beach. Golfers will find spectacular oceanfront courses nearby.
Laguna Beach, California
About an hour from downtown Los Angeles, Laguna packs coves, tide pools, and water sports into a compact coastline. Skimboarding started here, and you can also kayak, paddleboard, or surf. For luxury, choose Montage Laguna Beach or The Ranch at Laguna Beach.
Southern Atlantic Escapes
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Barrier islands made for beach time and quiet nights. Settle in Duck for a long weekend from Washington, D.C., or roam Nags Head, Cape Lookout National Seashore, and Ocracoke. Camp under the stars or check into the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Known for family friendly beaches and top tier golf, Hilton Head sits about two hours from Charleston. Book ocean views at Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort and plan a tee time at one of 33 championship courses.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Under an hour from Charleston, Kiawah delivers soft sand, calm energy, and serious golf. The Sanctuary provides five star beachfront comfort for a weekend of restorative downtime.
Southeast Sunshine
Florida Keys, Florida
Take the scenic drive from Miami to Key West with views for miles and plenty of Key lime pie stops. In Key West, relax on the beach, visit the Southernmost Point, and tour the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Stay at The Gates Hotel Key West or pick another island favorite, then end with a sunset cruise.
Tybee Island, Georgia
The closest beach to Atlanta offers options for every mood. Spread out on North Beach or slip away to Back River Beach to avoid the crowds. Historic Savannah sits just over the bridge for food, museums, and nightlife, with stays like the Mansion on Forsyth Park.
Gulf Coast Getaways
Galveston, Texas
An hour from Houston, Galveston pairs family fun with shore time. Ride coasters at Pleasure Pier, splash at Schlitterbahn, or explore the Galveston Naval Museum. Choose East Beach or Galveston Island State Park, then check into the Grand Galvez or join an evening ghost tour.
Florida’s Northern Coast
Amelia Island, Florida
Near the Georgia border, Amelia Island mixes 13 miles of Atlantic shoreline with golf and a charming downtown. The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island offers oceanfront luxury and easy access to the sand.
How to Plan Your Weekend
Pick one hub, book lodging near the beach, and keep your list short. Aim for one or two anchor activities, a seafood dinner, and plenty of time with your toes in the sand. If you can add a third day, slow it down even more with a morning paddle, a sunset walk, and a final bakery stop on the drive home.
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